Aluminium vs Plastic in the Construction Industry

By now, it's likely that you're well aware of the global movement to reduce plastic consumption. You may already be taking steps in your personal life to reevaluate and change the products you use. However, perhaps this shift has yet to extend to the products you specify or purchase for your workplace.

The pressures of pricing often lead manufacturers and buyers to opt for plastic in the production of items like downlights and other lighting products. Unfortunately, the more we use, the less we rely on materials like aluminium and glass.

Plastic and Its Challenges To put things into perspective, consider this global statistic from 2017: Of all the plastics ever produced (a staggering 8.3 billion metric tons), a whopping 6.3 billion metric tons have become plastic waste. Shockingly, only 9% of this waste has been recycled. The vast majority, a staggering 79%, accumulate in landfills or find its way into the natural environment, ultimately ending up in our oceans. This is a concerning reality.

Source: National Geographic

Why Choose Aluminum?

Amid this plastic predicament, aluminium stands out as a sustainable alternative. The recycling and manufacturing processes for aluminium are surprisingly efficient, making it an excellent foundational material for various global industries.

Here's why aluminium is a standout choice:

  • Recycling Efficacy: Aluminum retains its quality even after recycling, making it endlessly reusable.
  • Energy Savings: Recycling aluminium saves up to 95% of the energy required to produce primary aluminium.
  • Economical Sustainability: Aluminum recycling is economical as it consumes less energy, and the high value of used aluminium makes recycling self-sustaining.

Source: European Aluminium Association

How Solis Is Contributing

At Solis, we are committed to playing our part in reducing plastic use. This commitment extends to both our products and their packaging.

We believe that collectively, through conscious choices and sustainable practices, we can make a positive impact on our environment and reduce the detrimental effects of plastic waste.